Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 21 Jun 2000

Vol. 521 No. 5

Written Answers. - Consultant Appointments.

Jim O'Keeffe

Question:

125 Mr. J. O'Keeffe asked the Minister for Health and Children the position in relation to the proposed appointment of two consultant physicians to the county hospital, Bantry, County Cork; if approval has been granted for the appointments; if not, the reason therefor; the reason for the continuing delay in view of the retirement of the outgoing physician over a year ago; and when it is expected that the new appointees will take up their posts. [17645/00]

Minister for Health and Children (Mr. Martin)

The identification of priorities and the appointment of additional staff is a matter for the Southern Health Board in the first instance. An application for the post of consultant physician was received on 24 May 2000 and approval was issued from my Department on 19 June 2000.

An application for the post of a consultant physician with a special interest in geriatric medicine has been received and is currently being considered by my Department.